by Tom Kelley, publicity director, Balmoral Park

Crete, IL — Racing Secretary “Doc” Narotsky has announced qualifying dates for both Balmoral Park and Maywood Park in anticipation of a Feb. 5 starting date to kick off the 2014 harness season in the Prairie State.

Balmoral Park will hold qualifiers on Tuesday (Jan. 28) and Friday (Jan. 31). Entries for each qualifying date will close at 10 a.m. the day prior to each qualifying date. Starting time for both days will be 10 a.m. as well.

Maywood Park will conduct qualifiers on Thursday (Jan. 30). Entries will close at 10 a.m. on Wednesday (Jan. 29). Qualifiers will begin at 10 a.m.

The first draw for the anticipated Wednesday (Feb. 5) start date at Balmoral Park will be held on Friday (Jan. 31). A 45-day qualifying standard will be in effect at both ovals.

For complete information on both tracks, including the continuing Meadowlands handicapping contest taking place at Maywood Park and the Illinois OTBs, visit www.maywoodpark.com and www.balmoralpark.com.